RA/GAAP Unlimited: Rehabilitation Program for Degree Mill Addicts

Due to recent developments in genetic research, and with the encouragement of Peter French, APH, (Australia's Premier Humanitarian), I would like to implement a rehabilitation program for degree mill addicts. The program would be similar in structure to AA, and called "RA/GAAP Unlimited."

A breakthrough discovery has revealed a genetic mutation which predisposes some people to associate with degree mills (e.g., students, faculty, administration, misrepresenting one's credentials, etc.). Given this new discovery, it seems that such people are not responsible for their actions--after all, they have a disease and are ill. The new disease has been designated as "lessus-thanus-wonderfulus," by researchers. Further research revealed that the condition can lie dormant for years, then, like a time bomb, explode.

If you would like to facilitate this 12-Step program, tax deductable contributions can be made via Visa, MasterCard or American Express by calling 1-800-RA-GAAP-1.

Russell A. Morris
President
RA-GAAP Unlimited

[BillDayson]

Originally posted by Russell A. Morris:
A breakthrough discovery has revealed a genetic mutation which predisposes some people to associate with degree mills (e.g., students, faculty, administration, misrepresenting one's credentials, etc.). Given this new discovery, it seems that such people are not responsible for their actions--after all, they have a disease and are ill. The new disease has been designated as "lessus-thanus-wonderfulus," by researchers.

I understand that the US federal government has announced that any refusal to hire graduates of Trinity C&U, and to accomodate their disability (not knowing a damn thing about the subject they have a "Ph.D." in) is a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

[Rich Douglas]

Originally posted by Russell A. Morris:
Due to recent developments in genetic research, and with the encouragement of Peter French, APH, (Australia's Premier Humanitarian), I would like to implement a rehabilitation program for degree mill addicts. The program would be similar in structure to AA, and called "RA/GAAP Unlimited."

A breakthrough discovery has revealed a genetic mutation which predisposes some people to associate with degree mills (e.g., students, faculty, administration, misrepresenting one's credentials, etc.). Given this new discovery, it seems that such people are not responsible for their actions--after all, they have a disease and are ill. The new disease has been designated as "lessus-thanus-wonderfulus," by researchers. Further research revealed that the condition can lie dormant for years, then, like a time bomb, explode.

If you would like to facilitate this 12-Step program, tax deductable contributions can be made via Visa, MasterCard or American Express by calling 1-800-RA-GAAP-1.

Russell A. Morris
President
RA-GAAP Unlimited

The only snag is that Step 1, admitting you have a problem (or, in this case, telling people about your degree mill diploma) is what gets you into trouble in the first place. Unless you got it from Summit or Century. Then you stay at Step Zero while encouraging others to join you on your degree mill binge.


Rich Douglas

[Peter French]

Originally posted by Russell A. Morris:
Due to recent developments in genetic research, and with the encouragement of Peter French, APH, (Australia's Premier Humanitarian), I would like to implement a rehabilitation program for degree mill addicts. The program would be similar in structure to AA, and called "RA/GAAP Unlimited."

A breakthrough discovery has revealed a genetic mutation which predisposes some people to associate with degree mills (e.g., students, faculty, administration, misrepresenting one's credentials, etc.). Given this new discovery, it seems that such people are not responsible for their actions--after all, they have a disease and are ill. The new disease has been designated as "lessus-thanus-wonderfulus," by researchers. Further research revealed that the condition can lie dormant for years, then, like a time bomb, explode.

If you would like to facilitate this 12-Step program, tax deductable contributions can be made via Visa, MasterCard or American Express by calling 1-800-RA-GAAP-1.

Russell A. Morris
President
RA-GAAP Unlimited

There is another version of this mutation. It has been detected in people who can't make the grade with a 'proper' PhD, and opt for a PhD in 'religion' which has always been regarded either as a 'soft option' or just simply 'soft'.

They suffer from a delusion probably exacerbated by their 'self righteous' and 'sinless' state. This delusion is that the topic of any research at PhD level is of no consequence - and that the 'real' benefit of the PhD degree is the process of research rather than the content.

It is believed that there is NO treatment for this disease. It has a 'brother' and it is evidenced in having to undertake the 'PhD' in far flung places by research alone, the real reason being that the 'stress' brought on by the 'rigour' of advanced coursework, would destroy the soul.

It would appear that there is no suitable 12 step plan for people with this version of the illness. Maybe we should consider offering them some 'safe place' where they will not feel threatened or 'different' to their fellow man. Any suggestions where?

Peter French

[Bruce]

Originally posted by Russell A. Morris:
A breakthrough discovery has revealed a genetic mutation which predisposes some people to associate with degree mills (e.g., students, faculty, administration, misrepresenting one's credentials, etc.

Russell, the only problem is that the scientist who discovered this mutated gene has his M.D. from the Johann Keppler School of Medicine.


Bruce

[Rich Douglas]

Originally posted by Bruce:
Russell, the only problem is that the scientist who discovered this mutated gene has his M.D. from the Johann Keppler School of Medicine.


Bruce

Or the United American Medical College.

Rich Douglas

[John Bear]

I fear that an allied illness is the fascination with these matters. My wife has long considered my own fascination a form of academic pornography.

As for the 12-step program, because of my career experience and fine resume, I was offered the opportunity to complete it in three steps, nine days per step.

Originally posted by Peter French:
a PhD in 'religion' which has always been regarded either as a 'soft option' or just simply 'soft'.

It has a 'brother' and it is evidenced in having to undertake the 'PhD' in far flung places by research alone,

Ah, Peter. Always the Devil's advocate. Must be a trait from "down under."

Regarded as soft by whom? The masses? Anyone who has earned a legitimate Ph.D. in religion/theology/etc., would be more than glad to defend the regimen of the program.

And as to the "far flung" approach, this is for those who do not have mega$$$ to invest. Contrary to popular opinion (which again is wrong), most in ministry do not make mega$$$. Well there are some Aussie exceptions, e.g., Rodney Howard Browne, etc.

Russell

[Bill Highsmith]

Originally posted by Peter French:
...It would appear that there is no suitable 12 step plan for people with this version of the illness. Maybe we should consider offering them some 'safe place' where they will not feel threatened or 'different' to their fellow man. Any suggestions where?

A far-flung place where outcasts can go and feel at home.......? Where else but Melbourne, Australia, Pete? (Speaking of mutants...why has this threads spawned itself in another fora?)

Peter, I realize this is simply an exhibition of your sense of humour as you are of course aware that your own doctoral journey leaves you open to being the subject of much mirth.

At one time Theology was called the "Queen of Sciences". It was also two of the most difficult courses I took at the undergraduate level in Canada. I suppose many disciplines have undeserved reputations for being soft. Such is the case with the education field where M.Ed's & Ed.D's are often considered easy or as you put it "soft" degrees. This is of course not necessarily the case at all and goes along with how little we respect teachers in this country. I remember a German-German teacher in Frakonia, Bayern who noted how much more the Germans respect educators than we do in the US. He also noted that we protect our school children more (required to stop for school buses).

You provide interesting perspective Peter.

North (who has relatives some place in Australia. Hey Peter you are not related to any Hills are you?)

QUOTE]Originally posted by Peter French:
There is another version of this mutation. It has been detected in people who can't make the grade with a 'proper' PhD, and opt for a PhD in 'religion' which has always been regarded either as a 'soft option' or just simply 'soft'.

They suffer from a delusion probably exacerbated by their 'self righteous' and 'sinless' state. This delusion is that the topic of any research at PhD level is of no consequence - and that the 'real' benefit of the PhD degree is the process of research rather than the content.

It is believed that there is NO treatment for this disease. It has a 'brother' and it is evidenced in having to undertake the 'PhD' in far flung places by research alone, the real reason being that the 'stress' brought on by the 'rigour' of advanced coursework, would destroy the soul.

It would appear that there is no suitable 12 step plan for people with this version of the illness. Maybe we should consider offering them some 'safe place' where they will not feel threatened or 'different' to their fellow man. Any suggestions where?

Peter French

[/quote]

Originally posted by North:
I really mean this statement Peter (ie no sarcasm). You have a unique perspective on education due to your occupation and location. You also look like a character in your picture which was featured on your web site.

North

You provide interesting perspective Peter.

North (who has relatives some place in Australia. Hey Peter you are not related to any Hills are you?)

QUOTE]Originally posted by Peter French:
There is another version of this mutation. It has been detected in people who can't make the grade with a 'proper' PhD, and opt for a PhD in 'religion' which has always been regarded either as a 'soft option' or just simply 'soft'.

They suffer from a delusion probably exacerbated by their 'self righteous' and 'sinless' state. This delusion is that the topic of any research at PhD level is of no consequence - and that the 'real' benefit of the PhD degree is the process of research rather than the content.

It is believed that there is NO treatment for this disease. It has a 'brother' and it is evidenced in having to undertake the 'PhD' in far flung places by research alone, the real reason being that the 'stress' brought on by the 'rigour' of advanced coursework, would destroy the soul.

It would appear that there is no suitable 12 step plan for people with this version of the illness. Maybe we should consider offering them some 'safe place' where they will not feel threatened or 'different' to their fellow man. Any suggestions where?

Peter French

[/quote]

[Bruce]

Originally posted by Peter French:
There is another version of this mutation. It has been detected in people who can't make the grade with a 'proper' PhD, and opt for a PhD in 'religion' which has always been regarded either as a 'soft option' or just simply 'soft'.

Well Peter, would a Ph.D. from, say, Summit University qualify as a "soft option"????


Bruce

[Peter French]

Originally posted by Bill Highsmith:

A far-flung place where outcasts can go and feel at home.......? Where else but Melbourne, Australia, Pete? (Speaking of mutants...why has this threads spawned itself in another fora?)

Firstly - they are clearing our Osama's area for somebody surely.....?

Secondly - ever heard of self perpetuating mutations?


Peter

[Peter French]

Originally posted by Bruce:
Well Peter, would a Ph.D. from, say, Summit University qualify as a "soft option"????


Bruce

Maybe, but Natalie Rogers doesn't think so. I really can't judge as I don't have a PhD from Summit.

Peter French

[Peter French]

Originally posted by Russell A. Morris:
Ah, Peter. Always the Devil's advocate. Must be a trait from "down under."

Regarded as soft by whom? The masses? Anyone who has earned a legitimate Ph.D. in religion/theology/etc., would be more than glad to defend the regimen of the program.

And as to the "far flung" approach, this is for those who do not have mega$$$ to invest. Contrary to popular opinion (which again is wrong), most in ministry do not make mega$$$. Well there are some Aussie exceptions, e.g., Rodney Howard Browne, etc.

Russell

"Thou shalt not let thy cage be rattled!"

St Peter

[Peter French]

[quote]Originally posted by North:
[b]Peter, I realize this is simply an exhibition of your sense of humour as you are of course aware that your own doctoral journey leaves you open to being the subject of much mirth.

At one time Theology was called the "Queen of Sciences". It was also two of the most difficult courses I took at the undergraduate level in Canada. I suppose many disciplines have undeserved reputations for being soft. Such is the case with the education field where M.Ed's & Ed.D's are often considered easy or as you put it "soft" degrees. This is of course not necessarily the case at all and goes along with how little we respect teachers in this country. I remember a German-German teacher in Frakonia, Bayern who noted how much more the Germans respect educators than we do in the US. He also noted that we protect our school children more (required to stop for school buses).

You provide interesting perspective Peter.

North (who has relatives some place in Australia. Hey Peter you are not related to any Hills are you?)

1. We need more mirth - people take themsleves too seriously too often. I am now a MIGS MUG but do have Rich for company.

2. Hills? No - but a cowboy, hillbilly, feral or bushranger attitude overcomes me at times... :-)

3. Everyone should teach Asians and students from the Sub (?) Continent. To them the teacher is slightly below the diety but above the patriach of their families. It gives you a fine feeling, I can tell you.

Peter French

Originally posted by Peter French:
"Thou shalt not let thy cage be rattled!"
St Peter

I know you are not the original St. Peter, Peter, because he did not speak 17th Century English!

Russell

[Bruce]

Originally posted by Peter French:
I really can't judge as I don't have a PhD from Summit.

Really? In that case, from what institution do you have your doctorate?


Bruce

[Bill Highsmith]

Originally posted by Peter French:
...Everyone should teach Asians and students from the Sub (?) Continent. To them the teacher is slightly below the diety but above the patriach of their families. It gives you a fine feeling, I can tell you.

If you feel embarrassed and want to shed the deification, invite your students home to watch you eat barbeque.

To add to what North said, I think religious scholarship is under-appreciated. (I'm an engineer and am not beating my own drum.) I think someone doing serious religious scholarship has to start with all the skills that historians need: fluency in ancient languages, fluency in academic languages, knowledge of ancient cultures, general historical knowledge, and depth of historical knowledge in the specialty area. Starting from there you have to add the theological expertise.

It would not be exceptional for a Christian theologian to know Koine Greek or Hebrew (or both, well-enough to teach at the undergraduate level), German and English, the history and theology spoken of...prior to doctoral studies.

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[Peter French]

Originally posted by Bruce:
Really? In that case, from what institution do you have your doctorate?


Bruce

What doctorate?

I have 2 Masters degrees and am now starting my third, this time an Honour masters and will possibly convert unless I am too lazy which is quite likely.

Peter French